Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has passed a major milestone in its Growth Deal programme, with all four Phase 1 Outline Business Cases now lodged with the relevant Government Departments for scrutiny and approval.

This milestone paves the way to unlock £81.5 million for the first phase of work, part of a wider £125.3 million programme set to reshape the Borough’s economy and communities over the next decade. The Growth Deal is underpinned by £72m in government funding, with the Northern Ireland Executive and UK Government each committing £36m across the same period.

The Phase 1 proposals submitted are: Coleraine Leisure & Wellbeing Centre (£47.0m); Ulster University’s Centre for Food & Drug Discovery (£22.0m); North West Regional College’s FoodovationTM & Skills Centre (£5.8m); and the Dungiven Regeneration Programme (£6.7m).

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Subject to business case approval, the Council remains on course to sign the Deal Document by Summer 2026. This will trigger Contracts for Funding and allow the four Phase 1 projects to progress to planning and delivery.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Oliver McMullan, said: "This is an extremely proud moment for our Council area.

“The submission of all Phase 1 business cases represents months of dedicated work by our officers, project partners, and Government Departments. We are now one step closer to seeing these transformational projects become a reality.

"The Growth Deal will attract new industries, create high-quality employment opportunities, and help secure long-term prosperity for our communities. These Phase 1 projects alone represent a £81.5 million investment in our people, our infrastructure, and our future."

Work is continuing with partners on five Phase 2 projects. Business cases are being prepared and will be submitted to Departments as they are finalised over the coming year, with all submissions expected by December 2026, subject to available budgets.

Phase 2 proposals comprise: Bushmills Regeneration Programme (£6.9m); a Business Innovation & Incubation Hub (£16.5m); Connected Causeway Traffic & Parking (£9.7m); Greenways from Portrush to the Giant’s Causeway (£9.0m); and the Cushendall Innovation Centre (£1.7m).

In total, the £125.3 million Growth Deal represents a once-in-a-generation chance to build a stronger, better connected and more resilient Causeway Coast and Glens. It aims to attract and expand businesses, reinvigorate rural settlements, enhance tourism infrastructure, and raise aspirations and employability across the Borough.